What Age Can You Start Working in Canada? Working Age by Province (2026)

One of the most common questions young Canadians ask is "What age can I start working?" The answer depends on which province or territory you live in. Canada does not have a single national minimum working age — each province and territory sets its own rules. This guide covers the minimum working age by province, restrictions on youth employment, and how to get started.

Minimum Working Age by Province and Territory

The table below summarizes the minimum age to work in each Canadian province and territory as of 2026. Keep in mind that "minimum age" often comes with significant restrictions on the type of work and hours permitted. Scroll down for a detailed breakdown of each province.

Detailed Breakdown by Province

Alberta

Alberta has one of the most detailed youth employment frameworks in Canada. Children as young as 12 may work in artistic performances with a permit. At age 13, teens can work in certain light jobs such as delivering newspapers, working in an office, or clerking in a retail store. At 15, most standard employment becomes available. Workers under 18 are prohibited from operating heavy machinery, working in mines, or performing tasks involving hazardous substances. Youth under 15 require a permit from Employment Standards and written parent or guardian consent.

British Columbia

In BC, children aged 12-14 can work with written parental consent and employer registration with the Employment Standards Branch. At 15, most jobs become available without special permission. At 16, workers are considered unrestricted under provincial law. Youth under 15 cannot work during school hours, cannot work more than 4 hours on a school day, and cannot work between 8 PM and 6 AM. Hazardous industries such as mining, logging, and construction are off-limits until 18.

Ontario

Ontario allows most young people to work starting at age 14 in retail, restaurants, and offices. However, workers must be at least 15 to work in a factory, 16 to work in a kitchen of a hotel or restaurant, and 18 to work in construction, mining, logging, or other hazardous environments. There is no general requirement for parental consent, but employers should verify age. Students under 18 who are still in school are subject to the Education Act, which requires school attendance.

Quebec

Quebec does not set a single minimum working age. However, as of recent legislative changes, children under 14 generally cannot work in most industries. Youth under 16 cannot work during school hours and face strict limits on evening work hours. Quebec law prohibits employers from scheduling work that interferes with school attendance for any worker under the compulsory school-leaving age of 16. Night work (between 11 PM and 6 AM) is prohibited for workers under 18.

Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan allows light work starting at 14, including retail, food service, and office positions. Workers must be 16 for most standard employment. Youth under 16 cannot work more than 16 hours per week during the school year and cannot work during school hours. Hazardous occupations require workers to be at least 18.

Manitoba

Manitoba permits light work for 13-year-olds with parental consent. At 16, workers have unrestricted access to most jobs. Youth under 16 cannot work more than 20 hours per week during the school year and cannot work between 11 PM and 6 AM. Construction, mining, and other hazardous work requires workers to be at least 18.

Atlantic Provinces (NB, NS, PEI, NL)

New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland & Labrador all allow light work beginning at 14 with restrictions, and most standard employment at 16. PEI sets the minimum at 16 for most jobs. Across all four Atlantic provinces, workers under 16 face limits on hours during the school year and are prohibited from working in hazardous environments until age 18. Night work restrictions typically apply until age 16 or 18 depending on the province.

Territories (NWT, Nunavut, Yukon)

The three northern territories generally allow work from age 15 with restrictions and set 17 as the age for most standard employment. Workers under 17 typically need parental or guardian consent and face restrictions on hours and the type of work they can perform. Due to the unique employment landscape in the territories, some exceptions may apply for traditional land-based activities.

Federal Jobs (Canada Labour Code)

If you work for a federally regulated employer — such as a bank, airline, telecommunications company, or the federal government — the Canada Labour Code applies instead of provincial law. Under the Code, the minimum age to work is 17 years old. This applies regardless of which province you live in. Federal jobs are generally not the first employment young people seek, but it is important to be aware of this rule.

Common Restrictions for Young Workers Across Canada

Even when you meet the minimum age requirement, there are important restrictions that apply to young workers in most provinces:

Hours of Work During the School Year

• Most provinces limit young workers to 15-20 hours per week during the school year
• Work during school hours is generally prohibited for students under the compulsory school-leaving age
• Many provinces restrict late-night work (typically after 10 PM or 11 PM) for workers under 16 or 18
• Summer and holiday hours are usually unrestricted (within standard employment limits)

Types of Work Prohibited for Minors

• Construction sites — typically restricted until age 16 or 18
• Mining and quarrying — age 18 in all jurisdictions
• Logging and forestry — age 18 in most provinces
• Operating heavy machinery or forklifts — age 18
• Working with hazardous chemicals — age 18
• Serving alcohol — age 18 or 19 depending on the province's legal drinking age
• Working at heights or in confined spaces — age 18

Getting Your Social Insurance Number (SIN)

Before you can legally work in Canada, you need a Social Insurance Number (SIN). This is a 9-digit number issued by Service Canada that is required for employment, tax filing, and accessing government programs. There is no minimum age to obtain a SIN.

How to Apply for Your SIN

1. In person — Visit a Service Canada Centre with your original identity documents (birth certificate for Canadian citizens, or permanent resident card / work permit for newcomers). You will receive your SIN the same day.
2. By mail — Download and complete the SIN application form from the Service Canada website. Mail it with certified copies of your identity documents. Processing takes approximately 20 business days.
3. Online — Some applicants may be eligible to apply online through My Service Canada Account. Check the Service Canada website for current eligibility.

Documents You Need

• Canadian citizens: Birth certificate or Canadian passport
• Permanent residents: Permanent resident card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence
• Temporary residents: Work permit, study permit, or visitor record authorizing employment
• If you are under 18, a parent or guardian may apply on your behalf

Important: Never share your SIN unnecessarily. Your employer needs it for payroll, and the CRA needs it for taxes, but most other organizations do not need your SIN. Protect it like a password.

Know Your Rights as a Young Worker

Regardless of your age, if you are legally employed in Canada, you are entitled to the same workplace protections as adult workers. This includes:

• Minimum wage — you must be paid at least the provincial minimum wage (some provinces have a lower rate for students or youth)
• Safe working conditions — your employer must provide a safe workplace and proper training
• Breaks — you are entitled to meal breaks and rest periods as required by your province's employment standards
• No discrimination — you cannot be treated differently because of your age, race, gender, or any other protected ground
• Pay stubs and records — your employer must provide pay stubs showing your hours, deductions, and net pay

Next Steps

Now that you know the working age requirements in your province, here are some helpful resources to get started on your job search:

• How to get your first job in Canada — a step-by-step guide for young job seekers
• How to write a resume — create a strong resume even without work experience
• Browse youth job listings across Canada — find opportunities near you right now

Remember: Starting work at a young age is a great way to build skills, earn money, and gain independence. Just make sure you understand the rules in your province and always prioritize your education and safety.